Foley is quickly becoming an archery destination. In February, close to 2,000 shooters came out to the Hoyt Archery ProAm. Now, from October 26-29, Graham Creek Nature Preserve will be the site of the USA Archery First Annual National 3-D Collegiate Championships.
The event will bring shooters from schools around the country, including Michigan State University and West Virginia University, to compete in eight categories. Categories are open, bowhunter, Olympic recurve, and barebow and are offered for both men and women.
Mike Tyrell, President of the Archery Shooters Association and the man responsible for bringing the event to Foley, is also the one who runs the large annual February ProAm. He said it just made sense to also bring this collegiate event to the city.
“We really enjoy coming to Foley and truly appreciate the professionalism of your Sports Complex and the folks at Graham Creek, as well as the support we receive from your city,” Tyrell said.
But he’s not the only one excited to see archery grow in Foley. Leslie Gahagan, Environmental Manager and head of the Graham Creek Nature Preserve, says it is just one more way the city is making itself a unique destination.
“The city of Foley truly offers something for everyone, whether you’re a resident or a visitor,” Gahagan said. “The growth of archery not only brings more visitors to our city, but also allows our residents the opportunity to try something new.”
While the event won’t bring the same numbers as the annual ProAm in February, the event brings a different kind of visitor to Foley. But this being the first time the event is put on, it could very well experience similar growth.
Practice facilities will be open Thursday and Friday. First round starts Saturday at 8 a.m. and team rounds begin at 9 a.m. on Sunday. For more information on this or any of the Foley Sports Tourism Complex events, visit our events page.
